ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 25, 2025
Julian of Norwich (1342-1416) wrote,
“Pray, even if you feel nothing, see nothing. For when you are dry, empty, sick or weak, at such a time is your prayer most pleasing to God, even though you may find little joy in it.”
When she suggests that such prayer is “pleasing to God,” I don’t believe she is suggesting that it triggers God to act as if God only acts when we provide the correct offering. Yet I do believe it is pleasing to God as God knows that within those times when we are feeling dry, empty, sick, or weak, we are creating an openness within us to receive the gifts we are needing—the gifts of God’s love, mercy, and grace. I can’t help but wonder if the stream is pleased when the thirsty dip their cup into water, knowing that the thirst cannot be quenched without that initial movement.
Continue to beckon me, God, for there are days when I feel void of life, joy, and purpose. Bring me into an awareness of your immeasurable reservoir of gifts that are being offered to me in every moment of life. Amen.
